Trump’s Hormuz deadline looms but Asian nations have already struck deals with Iran
Trump’s Hormuz Deadline Looms but Asian Nations Have Already Secured Agreements with Iran
US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Monday, threatening to eliminate Iran “in one night” if it did not finalize a deal by 20:00 Washington DC time on Tuesday (00:00GMT Wednesday) to restore access to the Strait of Hormuz. However, prior to this ultimatum, several countries had already negotiated safe passage for their vessels through the vital shipping channel. Asian nations, including the Philippines, have prioritized these agreements as their economies depend heavily on energy imports from the Gulf.
Global Tensions Sparked by Iranian Retaliation
The strategic waterway has become a focal point of international concern after Iran responded to US and Israeli airstrikes by vowing to target ships in the strait. Since the disruption, oil prices have risen sharply, as the channel facilitates a fifth of global energy shipments. Trump had previously declared the US’s energy needs independent of the Gulf, pushing other nations to deploy warships and take responsibility for maintaining trade flow.
Philippines Seeks Safe Passage
The Philippines, the latest to formalize a deal with Iran, has secured assurances for its vessels to traverse the strait. According to Theresa Lazaro, the country’s foreign affairs secretary, the agreement was reached following a productive phone conversation with Tehran. “This is vital for ensuring energy and fertilizer supplies,” she stated in a
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. The nation relies on Middle Eastern oil for 98% of its needs and was the first to declare a national energy emergency after domestic petrol prices doubled during the Iran war.
Pakistan and India Engage in Diplomatic Talks
Pakistan announced on March 28 that Iran had agreed to allow 20 of its ships to pass through the strait. “Iran’s gesture is both welcome and constructive,” said Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Meanwhile, India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, highlighted that its tankers’ passage was the outcome of diplomatic efforts. The Iranian Embassy in India recently affirmed, “Our Indian friends are in safe hands, no worries,” in response to claims that only Iran and Oman would control the strait’s future.
China’s Involvement and Vessel Movement
China, Iran’s largest oil buyer, confirmed last week that three of its ships had crossed the strait, though details on the arrangement were not disclosed. Vessel-tracking data reveals millions of barrels of Iranian crude, sanctioned by the US, have reached Chinese ports recently. Beijing maintains strong diplomatic ties with Tehran and has joined Pakistan in advocating for a ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Uncertainty Over Agreements and Conditions
Questions persist about the extent of these assurances. Dimitris Maniatis from Marisks noted that it remains unclear whether the guarantees apply to all ships or just those under specific flags. Despite this, nations reliant on Gulf energy are increasingly recognizing the necessity of engaging with Iran to ensure continuity. Roger Fouquet from the National University of Singapore’s Energy Studies Institute pointed out that the Philippines, often viewed as a US ally, exemplifies Iran’s potential to “compartmentalize” its policies. The ongoing negotiations and ship movements suggest a complex interplay of alliances and economic interests.
